Morogoro. The Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) in Morogoro Region has urged journalists to take an active role in exposing and combating corruption, particularly in the lead-up to Tanzania’s 2025 General Election.
Speaking at a training workshop for media professionals on anti-corruption laws and regulations, PCCB Regional Head Ms Pilly Mwakasege emphasized the media’s critical responsibility in fostering accountability and promoting clean electoral practices.
“Journalists are uniquely positioned to influence public opinion and inspire civic action. In this crucial period, we urge the media to be at the forefront of preventing and rejecting corruption, especially in political processes,” she said.
Ms Mwakasege encouraged journalists to investigate and report corrupt practices, whether conducted behind the scenes or in public, particularly during political rallies, candidate nominations, and campaign financing.
“Corruption undermines the integrity of elections and violates citizens’ right to choose leaders freely and fairly. Media platforms must be used to educate the public about their constitutional rights and the consequences of electoral corruption,” she said.
She added that the training formed part of PCCB’s broader strategy to engage all key stakeholders—including media institutions in the ongoing fight against corruption.
For his part, PCCB Deputy Regional Head Mr Christopher Mwakajinga reaffirmed the media’s role as a voice for the voiceless, calling on journalists to strengthen their oversight at the grassroots level.
“Media houses must look beyond national headlines and focus on local governance, particularly the role of councillors in supervising public development projects,” he said.
“Local leaders are the first line of accountability in our communities, and they must be held to high standards.”he added
Mr Mwakajinga also cautioned journalists against underestimating the power of local reporting, noting that impactful stories often originate from communities.
One of the facilitators, Mr Herry Mwankusye, highlighted growing public awareness and participation in anti-corruption efforts, crediting this to increased education and media engagement.
“We are witnessing improved discipline among public servants, who are now more focused on service delivery than personal gain,” he said.
He noted that the value for money in government projects has improved, adding that Tanzania’s position in regional and global anti-corruption rankings has continued to rise.
“This progress demonstrates that corruption is being tackled more effectively, and public confidence is growing. National and international surveys confirm that corruption is on a downward trend in Tanzania,” Mr Mwankusye said.
The training brought together journalists from various outlets in Morogoro Region and was part of PCCB’s ongoing efforts to build a collaborative network of corruption watchdogs ahead of the 2025 elections.